Klay Thompson and the Warriors seem to have reached an impasse. Reportedly seeking at least a 3-year extension, GSW is not willing to give him the desired contract. The initial 2-year $48 million deal that he was offered last year is also off the table. It made Klay feel disrespected, as per Tom Tolbert. Meanwhile, if KT chooses to test free agency and leave the Bay Area, Mike Dunleavy and Co. might be willing to shift their focus to veteran Paul George. But that acquisition is unlikely to solve Stephen Curry and Co.’s problems.
Having been a core part of the franchise for 13 long years, Klay Thompson’s possible departure from Golden State is more than just a business decision for both parties. Addressing the situation, the Warriors GM revealed that there are a lot of emotions around this decision regarding the Splash Brother, and not considering all the love and loyalty is “almost impossible.” With that, he refused to touch upon the frozen negotiation reports between the sharpshooter and the team but revealed being “hopeful”.
However, keeping a realistic approach amid the emotional turmoil, Dunleavy realized that the window of Steph, Klay, and Draymond winning another title together might be closing because of their age. Therefore, at some point, the front office will have to think about making a big trade in hopes of continuing their dynasty beyond the Big 3’s tenure. He said, “I think we have to be realistic and I don’t want to press and overdo something. Some patience needs to take place.”
“As those guys get a little bit older, we have to be mindful that at a point maybe they’re not able to compete for a championship. I don’t think that’s too near, but at some point, it probably will be,” the GM concluded on 95.7 The Game. With that mindset, the Warriors could consider making a move for Paul George in case he denies his $48.8 million player option with the Clippers and becomes a free agent, while Klay decides to part ways with the team.
Paul George is on the same boat with Steph, Klay, and Draymond
Arguably the biggest name in this year’s free agency, PG has constantly been linked with Eastern Conference teams like the Sixers and the Magic. But with Klay’s possible departure, the Warriors will also have some cap space to acquire a star like PG, who is eligible for a four-year $212 million contract. But that move might not do much to end the Warriors’ struggles because just like their Big 3, Paul George is also in the later stages of his career. Recently turning 34, PG is nearly the same age as Klay Thompson and Draymond Green, and two years younger than Steph. So, even if he does come to the Bay Area, he will not solve their aging problem.
Despite his age, PG is still playing at an elite level. He is one of the best two-way players in the league. Just this season, he averaged 22.6 points, along with over 5 boards and nearly 2 steals. He kept his team afloat while Kawhi Leonard missed games due to recurring injuries. But just as Dunleavy fears for the Warriors Big 3, even PG’s window of winning a title might be ending in a few years.
PG also seems to have changed his outlook, chasing a championship as he recently revealed on his podcast, “At this point, I’m not even necessarily… chasing a Championship… It’s playing the right style of basketball is what I’m chasing.” So, even if GSW tries to make up for Klay’s departure by adding PG, the urgency and timeframe to win a title might remain the same.
Before you go, do not forget to check out what Shaquille O’Neal’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato has to say about the alleged Shaq and Kobe Lakers beef. Keep checking this space for more such updates.